You may think that situps and crunches are the only solution for flattening the abs. Although crunches are effective, they may not be enjoyable. Fortunately, there are many fun and easy ways to get stronger abs right from home. In addition to exercise, adding a few simple lifestyle modifications can create a complete ab-flattening solution.
Change Unhealthy Lifestyle
According to the "Prevention Magazine" website, several lifestyle changes can help encourage flatter abs. Try to eliminate stress from your life. When stress levels are high, the body produces cortisol, a hormone that directly affects the fat in the middle of the body. Try relaxation techniques like yoga or deep breathing. Avoid alcohol and smoking; both tend to raise cortisol as well. In addition, eating a diet rich in fiber can help reduce a bulging tummy. Fiber not only helps to keep you full so you do not overeat, it prevents constipation.
Exercise Ball
Use an exercise ball to help flatten the ab area. The "Good Housekeeping" website explains that exercise balls provide a different approach to abdominal exercises. Traditional crunches only work the stomach muscles--firming the muscle, but also shortening the muscle fibers. This prevents the stomach from looking flat. Exercise balls work both the abdominals and the back muscles. Exercising the back muscles helps to elongate the abs, resulting in a leaner, flatter stomach. Dedicate 10 minutes per day to an exercise ball routine to flatten the abs. Results will be noticed in about three weeks.
Good Posture
A perfect posture can make the abs flatter and make you look five pounds thinner. The "Prevention" website recommends standing up straight, imagining that you have a string pulling you up from the top of the head. Refrain from slumping when sitting--it only accentuates a poochy stomach. Always sit straight in your chair with your feet touching the ground. If the chair seat is too high to allow your feet to touch the floor without slouching, use a footstool or place a pillow behind the small of your back.
Daily Solutions
The "Prevention" website says you can help strengthen and flatten the abs through everyday activities. Tennis is an effective way to tone the abdomen--every turn and stroke helps strengthen the oblique muscles of the abdominals. Besides keeping the floors clean, pushing a vacuum cleaner around can tighten and flatten the abs. Try getting outside and gardening. All of the bending, pulling, digging and lifting can contribute to a flatter stomach.
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